Interviewing Successfully for Academic Positions: A Framework for Candidates for Asking Questions during the Interview Process

Anthony J Onwuegbuzie, Eunjin Hwang

Abstract

Although curriculum vitae, cover letters, and recommendations are essential aspects thattypically determine whether the candidate will be invited for interview, the on-site interviewtypically is the final determining factor in the selection process. Hence, during the interviewprocess, candidates should convey not only academic/professional strengths but alsocollegiality in an appropriate manner. Asking appropriate questions during academic interviewsis essential in that it allows applicants to detect what is expected from departments or unitsand also provides applicants with valuable information to assess the best fit. However, anextensive review of the literature revealed no work that discussed explicitly the types ofquestions that interview candidates should pose. Thus, the major purpose of this article is toprovide a framework for candidates who seek academic positions for asking questions duringthe interview process. In particular, typologies of interview questions are provided.Additionally, numerous questions are presented that are classified as being related to teaching,research, and service. Further, these questions are sub-divided into questions for searchcommittee members, the department chairperson/unit leader, dean, and vice president/provost.Although the list is by no means exhaustive, it is hoped that it will help candidates view theacademic interview as a two-way process in which both parties assume the joint role ofinterviewer and interviewee.

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